Cowboys vs. Eagles: Does Trade for WR Change NFC East Race?

FRISCO — The Philadelphia Eagles acquired Washington Commanders' receiver Jahan Dotson Thursday, adding to an already rich skilled position group. He joins A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith in the receiving room as a projected third receiver with notable veterans Parris Campbell and John Ross slated on the depth chart as well.

The move comes as a surprising one given the apparent depth the Eagles possess at his position and one with a sprinkling of humor given the Dallas Cowboys made their own inner NFC East trade a week ago.

Make no mistake, this acquisition represents Philadelphia's commitment to winning this year and erasing the stench of last season's dreadful conclusion. But what does Dotson bring to this group?

Dotson could have some untapped potential coupled with his youth that the Eagles may delve into. This offense already has a litany of weapons so adding Dotson to the mix only heightens that truth.

Campbell and Ross had seen success in previous points in their careers, yet it's clear their early returns from camp and the preseason were unsatisfactory for the Philly folks. So will Dotson turn things around at the third receiver spot?

Perhaps the change of scenery benefits the young player. But the third-year receiver was on track to lose the number two spot in Washington to Olamide Zaccheaus. With respect to the veteran, that remains a major question for the former first-round pick.

Turning to the bigger point, how will this move impact the NFC East race? With a small blip in the 2020 season, the division has run through either Dallas or Philadelphia every year since 2016. It appears that trend will continue into 2024.

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Dotson at his best makes this Eagles offense an even more formidable bunch, but he needs to demonstrate a maturation in his game and likely accept a lesser role than he had in Washington.

The Cowboys have had their own spurt of activity recently, solidifying their run defense and defensive front with moves for Carl Lawson, Jordan Phillips and Linval Joseph.

How all these pieces factor into product on the field will be determined in the coming weeks and has set the stage for another pair of high stakes matchups between the teams. But with a division as chaotic as the NFC East has proven, nothing can be guaranteed until the games are played.